Abstract
Purpose: The present study is an attempt to analyze selected sports movies with reference to discrimination and misogyny against sportswomen. The aim is to explore how Indian sportswomen face misogyny and discrimination in sport institutions and society at large. Approach/Methodology/Design: The study is based on thematic analysis to destabilize the notion that sports are the sole realm of men alone. Feminist film theory is also used in the analysis of the movies. Two movies were selected; Chak de! India (2007) and Dil bole Hadippa! (2009). Findings: The results of the analysis indicate that these movies despite having their own drawbacks exhort that society cannot deny women equal rights of participation and opportunity in sports. Both of the movies project their protagonists struggling to achieve success in sports. It is revealed that despite the progress that has been achieved in sports, misogyny is deep-rooted in sport institutions. Practical Implications: The paper throws light on various types of barriers, socio-cultural, biological and psychological, which women players have to cross, in addition to dealing with a bizarre and weird kind of treatment which their male counterparts do not normally confront. It depicts how family pressures and restrictions, cultural inhibitions, lack of support and biased attitude of society can ultimately thwart the ambitions of women players. Originality/value: The paper suggests that sports can be used as an effective tool for women empowerment. As part of the feminist inquiry, the attempt here is to expose the inequalities and discrimination against sportswomen.
Highlights
Sports have been recognized as a masculine sphere since ages
This research paper presents a thematic study of the misogyny faced by Indian sportswomen at different levels
The main reason for the selection of this time frame is that during this period the Indian cinema witnessed a recent surge in the production of sports movies with female lead. Both of the movies emphasize the problems faced by Indian sportswomen of those sports that are traditionally linked to men
Summary
Sports have been recognized as a masculine sphere since ages. This idea persists among the spectators, in spite of the space women have carved out for themselves. The supposition is still that men are the stars and girls are the cheerleaders. When women challenge this as athletes, coaches or commentators, they are often met with complete bitterness. From the time when the first Olympic Games, was held, participation in most sport events was restricted to men alone. Even in the modern Olympic games of 1896, women were not allowed to participate.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
More From: Middle Eastern Journal of Research in Education and Social Sciences
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.